Cherry Vanilla Chia Pudding (gluten-free, dairy-free)

I love healthy, easy snacks and this one is perfect. It’s packed with fiber rich chia seeds and fruit, and will give you lasting energy and a quick pick me up on the go.

You’ll reap benefits from healthy ingredients like:

Cinnamon, which is an antioxidant that helps lower blood cholesterol, regulate blood sugar (which helps with cravings), can alleviate headache and migraine symptoms, and boosts both cognitive function and memory.

Cherries, which contain anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that can aid in the reduction of heart disease and cancer, and can reduce not only inflammation after exercise but also symptoms of arthritis and gout. Cherries are also a good fiber source and are rich in Vitamins A, C, E, potassium, folate, magnesium, and iron.

Chia seeds, which are packed with antioxidants and are a phenomenal source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Chia is wonderfully absorbent and will help you feel full longer – as they exit your stomach, chia seeds can bind with harmful substances and carry them right out of you.

*You can grind your own chia seeds in a blender or food processor, or purchase them pre-ground or milled. Whole chia seeds will also “gel” but milled chia seeds are much finer and will give you a smoother texture.

Let me know if you're going to try this, and how it comes out! Share this post with a friend so they can try it too, and be sure to tag me in your food photos on Facebook and Instagram!

You can find more amazing, healthy recipes in every one of my signature Meal Plans! Get yours today!

References:

Howatson, G., et al. “Influence of tart cherry jounce on indices of recovery following marathon running.” US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. December 2010. Web. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19883392

Martinez-Cruz, O. and Paredes-Lopez, O. “Phytochemical profile and nutraceutical potential of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) by ultra high performance liquid chromatography.” US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. June 13, 2014. Web. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24811150

Wang, H., et al. “Antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities of anthocyanins and their aglycon, cyanidin, from tart cherries.” US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. February 1999. Web. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10075763